Michelle Rogers
Imagine arriving in remote Pilbara, WA, to embark on a new project, only to discover a critical gap: a shortage of skilled individuals to deliver crucial financial literacy education. Faced with this challenge, Michelle Rogers turned to ICAN Learn, completing three in-demand skill sets. Not only did Michelle successfully deliver the project, she also unlocked a new career trajectory, demonstrating the power of upskilling.
Welcome to The Yarn Michelle!
Can you share a bit about yourself with us?
I was born in Perth, WA, and grew up in various places across the state. I lived in the Pilbara in the late 1970s and ’80s and graduated from Karratha District High School. I went to university in Perth and later worked as a Chemist. I relocated to Singapore in 2001 and lived there until 2014.
Up until last year, I worked in a secondary school as an educational assistant. I love helping young people achieve their potential and helping them find a career pathway. It is this love that propelled me towards a new role in transitional housing for young First Nations people.
That sounds interesting! What was your role there?
I took on the role of Housing Program Manager for a majority-owned Indigenous company based in The Pilbara, in north-west WA. The role entailed designing and implementing a support program for First Nations participants in a transitional housing program. Participants are required to engage in support services and workshops that help them meet their financial, tenancy, employment, and wellbeing goals.
I engaged with service providers and other local organisations to establish the program as well as manage the tenancy of the housing units. The facility also encompasses a training centre, used to deliver training to tenants and workshops to the broader community.
Can you tell us why you needed to upskill for the project?
When I began my role as Housing Program Manager, I needed to implement a support program for participants in the transitional housing program. A crucial element of the program was delivering financial literacy education to participants; however, with local service providers in high demand, I soon realised that I needed to quickly upskill myself in this area to support the delivery of this content.
What sort of courses were you looking into?
Initially, I began looking for organisations that offered the CHCSS00077 Financial Literacy Education skill set and discovered ICAN Learn. Their course perfectly aligned with my needs as the skill set was delivered with Indigenous values. I was so impressed by ICAN Learn’s exceptional delivery, industry-based trainers, and the interactive nature of the course that I then signed up for their CHC42021 Certificate IV in Community Services. As the CHCSS00077 Financial Literacy Education is a component of the CHC42021 Certificate IV in Community Services, I was able to receive credits for the study I had already completed, enabling me to complete my new course within the year.
What is something that surprised you about your study experience?
The sheer amount of support from our trainer and my fellow students in the course was incredible. The willingness to always share and help each other, challenge the content, and reflect on our different experiences was fantastic. I always looked forward to our weekly online catchups.
Did you discover anything about yourself during the process?
That you are never too old to learn new things. I learnt about my bias and how to reflect on who I am, and how that influences my choices and reactions to different situations. I also found completing ICAN Learn’s CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety invaluable. It’s really an essential course to complete if you’re working with First Nations clients or living in a remote community.
Why did you choose to study with ICAN Learn?
It’s a no-brainer -you can’t go past ICAN Learn for their support, values, and content. I did look at other courses, but theirs suited my needs. I was able to work full-time as the online class was once a week, and the time difference allowed for minimal work disruption. The pre-course interview with them was also great as it solidified my decision that I had chosen the correct course. I loved every minute of my studies.
What do you hope your new skill sets will provide you with in future?
My studies provided me with a real understanding and insight into the issues and biases that exist in dealing with vulnerable people, including First Nations peoples. Gaining this understanding allows me to make better informed and more tailored decisions when assisting people in the community. Although I’m now living back in Perth, I’m confident the valuable skill sets I’ve acquired from ICAN Learn, combined with my experience in The Pilbara, will allow me to work in a similar role with First Nations peoples and housing.
Ok, it’s nearly the weekend – where will we find you?
At my daughter’s wedding in Kangaroo Valley, NSW. Hopefully, the rain won’t affect the day!
Need more information about ICAN Learn’s services?
Visit our website to find out more about ICAN Learn’s Courses and Scholarships here
Or if you need help with your corporate training needs ICAN Learn is here to help! Contact us at administration@icanlearn.edu.au or phone us on (03) 5471 7777
